Head of Protection and Gender Unit

Job Posting Organization:
NORCAP is an organization dedicated to improving aid for people affected by crises and climate change. Established with the mission to provide expertise and solutions to humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding partners, NORCAP operates with the belief that collaboration is essential to reducing needs, risks, and vulnerabilities over time. The organization aims not only to alleviate immediate needs but also to create opportunities for vulnerable populations. NORCAP achieves its goals through targeted expertise, collaborative solutions, and a strong focus on protection, which is central to its vision. The organization manages key projects such as the Gender Standby Capacity Project (GenCap) and the Protection Standby Capacity Project (ProCap) in partnership with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Job Overview:
The Head of Protection and Gender Unit will lead multiple teams focused on various protection-related topics, including Gender-Based Violence and Protection against Sexual Harassment and Abuse. This role involves managing projects that support UN agencies, international organizations, and national authorities while driving joint initiatives aimed at improving sector-wide approaches to protection and gender. The successful candidate will be an engaged, proactive, and experienced operational leader capable of developing strategies, managing resources, and fostering partnerships to fulfill NORCAP's commitment to protecting people and promoting equality. The position requires strategic leadership and operational oversight across all protection and gender initiatives, ensuring that the organization's mission is effectively translated into actionable plans and that risks are identified and mitigated.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As the Head of Unit, the candidate will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and operational oversight across all protection and gender initiatives. Key responsibilities include:

• Project Management: Develop and oversee budgets, operational goals, and action plans; ensure timely delivery of projects within scope, cost, and quality standards; monitor progress and report internally and to donors.
• Strategic Leadership: Translate NORCAP’s strategy into actionable plans; identify risks and implement mitigation measures; champion innovation and cross-unit collaboration to strengthen impact.
• People Leadership: Line-manage senior staff, mentor team leaders, and foster a culture of accountability and inclusion; ensure performance management and professional development across the unit.
• Partnership & Donor Engagement: Build and maintain strategic partnerships with UN agencies and other actors; lead donor engagement and fundraising efforts to expand the portfolio.
• Team Oversight: Set up and close teams as needed; provide guidance on day-to-day operations, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and compliance with security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and duty-of-care standards.

Required Qualifications:
To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills: a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, including at least 3 years in management or leadership roles. A postgraduate or professional qualification is preferred, with a Master’s degree being ideal; however, extensive experience may substitute for formal education. Strong knowledge of HR processes and people management is essential, along with experience in complex and volatile contexts. Familiarity with UN agencies and humanitarian coordination systems is considered an advantage. Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages is preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates are expected to have a postgraduate or professional qualification, with a Master’s degree being preferred. However, extensive relevant experience may be considered as a substitute for formal educational qualifications. The educational background should ideally align with the responsibilities of the role, emphasizing leadership, management, and humanitarian principles.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, with at least 3 years in management or leadership roles. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in complex and volatile contexts, demonstrating their ability to navigate challenges and lead teams effectively in high-pressure environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in other languages is preferred, which may enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in various international contexts.

Additional Notes:
The position offers flexible working hours and hybrid arrangements, allowing for a balance between remote and in-office work. It provides meaningful work within a global organization that addresses humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding challenges. The salary is classified as Grade 10 on NRC’s pay scale. In January 2027, the organization will relocate to a new, people-centric workspace at Drivhuset (Urtegata 9), a fully renovated, sustainable office in central Oslo designed to promote wellbeing and innovation. Interested candidates should apply by 18 January 2026, at 23:59 Oslo time, and are encouraged to register their full employment history and education in English, as uploaded CVs alone will not be reviewed. NORCAP values diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates. Background checks will be conducted for shortlisted applicants, and feedback will be provided within four weeks after the closing date.